How to bid on USS Rushmore Ballast Tanks Preservation for the Dept of the Navy

What the Navy is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Navy needs a contractor to preserve the ballast tanks on the USS Rushmore (LSD-47). This work will take place in Sasebo, Japan, between October 2026 and July 2027. This is an opportunity for specialized firms to provide essential maintenance services for a naval vessel.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on July 14, 2026. All responses must be submitted by August 16, 2026, at 9:00 PM ET. It is crucial to submit your bid before this deadline, as late submissions are typically not considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for companies that hold a Master Ship Repair Agreement (MSRA) or an Agreement for Boat Repair (ABR). Additionally, vendors must be authorized to perform work in Japan. The work involves equipment preservation, specifically ballast tanks, on a naval ship.

The solicitation is competitive and issued to MSRA and ABR holders in Japan only. You will need to provide documentation to demonstrate your authorization to perform this work in Japan.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details and documents, you will need to click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Ensure your company meets all the specific requirements, especially holding an MSRA or ABR and having authorization to work in Japan. Clearly demonstrate these qualifications in your response. Pay close attention to the scope of work for the seven CLINs (Contract Line Item Numbers) related to ballast tank preservation.

Review all solicitation documents thoroughly to understand the Navy's exact needs and evaluation criteria. Prepare your proposal well in advance of the deadline to allow time for any technical issues or last-minute adjustments. A well-organized and compliant submission is key to a competitive bid.